5 Expensive but Amazing Gifts for Runners

There is no shortage of lists revealing amazing gifts for runners. Everyone, from bloggers to running specialty stores have published a holiday gift guide for runners.

Last year I compiled a list of 10 Christmas gifts for runners. This year, I wanted to compile more of a wishlist: amazing gifts for runners that were truly splurge items. Items that are worth their hefty price tag (assuming you don’t need to run on a tight budget).

While these gifts for runners aren’t cheap, they’re also not ridiculous. You won’t find $1,000 running shoes or a diamond studded ear warmers. This is all stuff you might actually want to purchase if you’re able…

Below are 5 amazing gifts for runners that definitely something that won’t get returned.

1. A Vacation (with some Running)

When I’m traveling, I love to explore on foot. A vacation that involved a lot of running as sightseeing would truly top by wishlist. This gift is amazing because you would get to experience the culture and history of a new place by running through it.

It is also amazing because there are tons of options!

One that caught my eye was Running Costa Brava. Costa Brava is a coastal region of northeastern Spain, that’s a huge tourist destination. With an amazing climate, on this tour you’ll see castles, amazing coastal villages, ancient ruins and whole bunch of other stuff.

The high end, seven day package is $1,500 (which doesn’t include airfare).

Another idea is to go through a local company like Marathon Adventures. They make all the arrangements for you to run a marathon in some pretty amazing locations around the world. In addition to the race, you’ll see some incredible things you wouldn’t on your own. Prices vary from $2k – $15k depending on location and race.

2. Treadmill

Ok, ok… as much as everyone says they hate them, there are benefits to using a treadmill – especially in the winter. Using it a few times a week, during the worst part of winter, just to get your workouts in, can prevent a lot of catastrophe outside. They are also amazing if you have small kids – when nap time is the only time you’re able to get your run in.

I’m currently trying to convince my wife we should get one. As I have been researching treadmills, I’ve found there is a crazy big range in how much they cost. From $900 to $4,000 and more. All you really need is something that inclines and goes at least as fast as your 5k pace. Since it will likely only see about 10-15 miles a week, it’s going to last forever.

After reading a bunch of reviews on Amazon and TreadmillReview.net, the LifeSpan TR 1200i is probably the one I would get if I could. At about $1,000, it’s the least expensive, best made treadmill that meets my very simple requirements.

3. Ultimate Winter Running Jacket

If you’re looking to find the best winter running jacket, you’re going to spend at least $100. To get one that will protect you from Minnesota winter, probably $200.

Based on my experience with the non Flash version, and all the reviews online, what makes this an amazing gift is everything. It does the best job of blocking wind, keeping you warm, breathing and is by far the most reflective jacket on the planet.

4. Garmin Forerunner

Running with a GPS is amazing. I’ve had the same one for almost eight years. I would love a new one, but until mine breaks, it’s hard to justify it.

Since this is a wishlist, I want the the Garmin Forerunner 620 with heart rate monitor. At $450, what makes this an amazing gift for a runner (me) is how many amazing features it has. Here are a few:

Built-in accelerometer tracks distance and pace when indoors

Connected features include automatic uploads to Garmin Connect, live tracking and social media sharing.

5. GoPro Hero 4 with Chest Strap

I can think of a lot of cool uses for a GoPro Hero 4. Obviously not just for runners. Strap it to my toddler and see what he sees for a few hours. Or put it on a helium balloon and fly it over the St. Paul Winter carnival?

One thing I’ve always wanted to do is run a race with one strapped to my chest. Between $499 – $599 (depending on accessories), I bet it would look as cool as this…

Your Wish List

What are some other amazing gifts for runners that are on your wishlist this year?

Nathan started running when he was 14. 20+ years later, he’s still going. When he’s not running, he enjoys exploring the city with his son, finding new restaurants with his wife, traveling, or backpacking. He loves dark beer, dark chocolate, and dark coffee.

Nathan currently lives in Portland, Oregon, but works in Minneapolis and runs wherever he is. Favorite Minnesota running route is anything that takes him along the Mississippi River.Race Results.

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lethoreson

Another good running travel option is RunQuest Travel (http://www.runquesttravel.com/). There’s not a lot of options yet – Portugal and the Trail du Mont-Blanc – but it’s a top notch organization led by the winner of last year’s 135 mile Badwater Ultramarathon (and former Minnesota resident), Harvey Lewis.

frenat

Thanks for the tip! Have you been on one of these yet?

Nathan

lethoreson

I haven’t (and full disclosure, I’ve known Harvey for awhile and was part of his crew at Badwater), but seeing RunQuest move from just an idea to actual trips is pretty cool. I really like the idea of a “running vacation.”

frenat

Yes, those vacations are fun. Have you been on any?

-Nathan

EricRinMpls

Perfect timing for this – I used to run with my iPhone using RunKeeper, but had to upgrade my phone and the new iPhones are just to big to run with. So hopefully I’m getting a Garmin!! (620 please, Santa??)

I just saw that Marathon Sports is having a Garmin run tomorrow (Tues, Dec 9, 6:30pm). Garmin will be there and you can see the different models and take a run around Lake Harriet with one! That day doesn’t work for me, but would be a good way to maybe try one out.

frenat

Yes! That’s a great way to test out a few different models. Honestly, most runners only really need pace, time and splits.

Nathan

lethoreson

I had a 620 but ended up taking advantage of REI’s return policy to get a Fenix2. Many of the same features (including the running metrics) but with buttons instead of a touchscreen, much longer battery life – and unfortunately a big more weight. Given that they were the same price, the benefits were enough to get me to the Fenix2.

Josh Ruhnke

I may have gotten myself a present off this list already….I love my new Garmin.

frenat

And a very Merry Christmas to you!

-Nathan

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